Termites Likely to Flourish in Warm Spring Weather

After a long winter, warmer weather is eagerly anticipated.
However, there is an important reason to be cautious during the
spring -
termites. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) warns
that as the temperature increases so does the potential for
termite swarms and infestations.

Once termites infest a home, these aggressive pests can quickly
chew through floors, walls, carpeting and even wallpaper. With a
termite colony's ability to chew 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and
to number in the hundreds of thousands, the damage caused by
termites can threaten the structural safety of a home. In fact,
NPMA research has found that termites cause more than $5 billion in
property damage every year.

"Although certainly prevalent in the South, termites live in
almost every region of the United States," says Jim Fredericks,
technical services director for NPMA. "Every home is at risk for a
termite infestation, even the most beautifully maintained property.
This is why homeowners must be vigilant and regularly inspect their
properties for termite damage, especially if a house does not have
regularly scheduled termite inspections." Fredericks continues,
"These pests have a keen ability to remain undetected until damage
becomes visible."

NPMA offers these proactive tips to help prevent termite
infestations within homes during the spring:

Carefully inspect perimeter of home for rotting wood, mud tubes
or a visible termite presence.